The Very Group announces the National Literary Trust as new charity partner

The Very Group has announced that the National Literary Trust will be its charity partner for the next three years. 

The National Literacy Trust is an independent charity which works with schools, communities and partners across the UK to empower children, young people and adults with the literacy skills they need to succeed in life.

Aiming to raise £450,000 through workers’ activities and events, The Very Group is planning to support the charity to help more children develop a passion for reading as research revealed just one in three eight-18 year olds said they enjoyed reading in their spare time.

The money raised by workers from across the business will be used to support communities across the country with a focus on Liverpool and the Midlands. In Liverpool in particular, the money raised will launch a new community programme to support families living in the most “disadvantaged” areas of the city. 

The programme will also work with nurseries, playgroups and family hubs to further support children.

Sarah Willett, chief people officer at The Very Group, said: “Charity has always been a big part of our culture here at Very, and over the past ten years, we’ve supported five different charities and raised millions of pounds.

“We hope that, through this new partnership with the National Literacy Trust, we’re able to inspire children and give them the literacy skills they need to succeed. However, reading isn’t just about success – it’s about enjoyment and finding topics which inspire us throughout life.

She added: “The National Literacy Trust is an exciting charity to be involved with and we have lots of fundraising plans lined up for the next 12 months. I can’t wait to see how our partnership helps people in our local communities.” 

Jonathan Douglas, chief executive of the National Literacy Trust, added: “Literacy can have a positive impact on so many areas of children’s lives, from boosting their confidence and wellbeing to improving academic performance and future outcomes – setting them up for a bright future.But vast numbers of children and young people across the UK don’t have the reading, writing and oracy skills they need to thrive, with those living in disadvantaged communities at greatest risk of falling behind.

“Over the next three years, our partnership with The Very Group will strive to break this cycle. Working with local communities, educators and families, we will together empower more children and young people who need it most with the literacy skills to get the most out of life and the power to shape their futures.”